Minnesota Vikings Roster Overview: The secondary
The Minnesota Vikings have done a lot to beef up their secondary in recent years. When Mike Zimmer took over as head coach in 2014, Minnesota’s pass defense improved significantly. They went from a bottom five to a top five unit in just a few short years. What was once one of the defenses greatest weaknesses is quickly becoming one of its greatest strengths.
In this article we’ll take a look through the depth of the Vikings’ secondary, as well as the strengths and weaknesses.
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Cornerback
This is perhaps one the strongest positions on the entire Vikings defense. Minnesota has accumulated quite the diverse set of talent to line up outside as well as in the slot. From Xavier Rhodes to Captain Munnerlyn, the Vikings have a strong group to pit against any set of wideouts.
Rhodes leads the way outside along with Trae Waynes, Terence Newman, Mackensie Alexander, and Marcus Sherels.
Although Newman started last year, Waynes should take the reigns opposite Rhodes in 2016. The two could create a dominant duo that would last for a long time. Both have shut down capabilities and the height to compete with the more talented receivers in the NFL. Even if Newman isn’t starting he still provides valuable depth while Alexander is a talented rookie who can produce right away if needed.
Munnerlyn makes his money in the slot, but he’s not alone. Second round pick, Alexander can also show his worth inside. The former Clemson Tiger is especially strong in a man scheme. Lucky for him, Zimmer tends to put his defensive backs on an island regularly. If all goes right, the Vikings could have three potential lock down corners.
Safety
This is one area the Vikings have question marks heading into the 2016 season. Harrison Smith has been a perennial star ever since he stepped foot in the twin cities but outside of him, the other safety spot has brought up quite the concern. The Vikings have had trouble finding the right compliment alongside Smith. However, they do have a flurry of players who could step up and take the role in 2016.
Michael Griffin is the most likely candidate. The Vikings signed him as a free agent earlier in the spring. As a former pro bowler, Minnesota hopes he can find the same fountain of youth Newman fed off of in 2015. He’s familiar with coach Jerry Gray who formerly coached him in Tennessee. He could serve as a stop gap for the Vikings as younger players develop behind.
Out of those young athletes, Jayron Kearse and Anthony Harris stand out the most. Harris showed spurts of talent last year when the Vikings were depleted by injury. He didn’t shy away from the opportunity and showed promise for his future.
Kearse could also find some playing time in 2016. Recently drafted by the Vikings in the seventh round, he has all the looks of a starting safety in the NFL. Zimmer had had his eye on him for multiple rounds before they finally selected him with their last pick.
At six-feet-four-inches tall, Kearse is a freakish athlete. He can body up with any wide receiver and showed strength against the run in his college career. He has all the physical tools necessary to succeed. Zimmer will have to find a way to mold him into more of a complete player, but Kearse could surprise his rookie year and in ending up in the starting rotation.
Wrap up
The Vikings have plenty to look forward to in 2016. The secondary is in competing shape for Minnesota, however the biggest question remains to be at the safety spot. Who will step up in 2016 to take the pressure off of Smith?
As the Vikings look to make a Super Bowl bid, defense will be of high importance. The NFL has shifted to one dominated by high flying passing attacks. There are a number of high caliber quarterbacks to go with these aerial onslaughts, and the Vikings will need all the help they can get defending the pass, if they are going to be packing their bags for Houston come season’s end.
Austin Erwin writes for cover32 and covers the Minnesota Vikings. He can be followed on Twitter @austin_erwin. Like and follow vikings32 on on Facebook and Twitter.
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